This course is a general introduction to physical geology for the science major. Properties of various mineral groups and of igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks are reviewed. Historical development of the science of geology is reviewed. Plate tectonics and the processes of tectonism, erosion and weathering are integrated to show how landforms develop. Earth's internal structure and its magnetic and thermal properties are reviewed. The fossil record and the geologic time scale are discussed. The distribution of the earth's mineral resources and its various geologic hazards are reviewed. Course includes hands-on demonstrations of topics reviewed in lecture and experimentation utilizing the analytical techniques and equipment reviewed in the course. The course is intended to support the academic preparation of those students pursuing a degree in environmental science or another related discipline that requires an understanding of physical geology. The course provides professional preparation for environmental scientists, geologists and other earth science professionals. The course assumes some basic mastery of biology, chemistry and physics. Students not majoring in the natural sciences may enroll in the course upon consultation with their advisor.
Prerequisites: high school physics and chemistry
Co-requisite: GEOL1015
3 Credits

GEOL1015 - Intro To Phys Geology Lab
Spring 2015

This is a laboratory course to support instruction in a physical geology course for the science major. Students engage in hands-on experimentation and participate in instructor led demonstrations reviewing select aspects of the properties of various mineral groups and of representative igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. Students engage in the drawing, review and analysis of topographic and geologic maps. The course prepares students in the appropriate use and calibration of the analytical techniques and equipment used by the geological community. Students review historical data related to the earth's internal structure, its magnetic and thermal properties, the fossil record, the distribution of the earth's mineral resources, and geologic hazards, among others, and prepare reports, charts, graphs and maps to display and interpret these data.
Prerequisites: High School Physics and Chemistry
Co-Requisite: GEOL10001 Credits

GEOL1090 - Stars, Planets & The Cosmos
Spring 2015

This course examines the nature and distribution of the stars and galaxies in the universe. Theories of Newton, Kepler, Einstein, and Hawking, among others, are reviewed to aid the student to understand the processes of star formation. Aspects of gravity, nuclear fusion, chemical evolution, radio astronomy, black holes, pulsars, and the Big Bang theory are discussed. The course also reviews and examines the properties and characteristics of the planetary bodies in the solar system. The potential uses of zero gravity environments for industrial purposes, the mining of planetary bodies, and space travel are discussed. Principles of scientific inquiry are integrated throughout the course.
3 Credits

GEOL1095 - Honors Stars, Planets & Cosmos
Spring 2015

This course examines the nature and distribution of the stars and galaxies in the universe. Theories of Newton, Kepler, Einstein, and Hawking, among others, are reviewed to aid the student to understand the processes of star formation. Aspects of gravity, nuclear fusion, chemical evolution, radio astronomy, black holes, pulsars, and the Big Bang theory are discussed. The course also reviews and examines the properties and characteristics of the planetary bodies in the solar system. The potential uses of zero gravity environments for industrial purposes, the mining of planetary bodies, and space travel are discussed. Principles of scientific inquiry are integrated throughout the course.
3 Credits

GEOL1100 - Oceans, Waves & Tides
Spring 2015

This course examines the major physical, chemical, and biological properties of the world's oceans. Processes affecting ocean temperature, salinity, and density are reviewed. Factors controlling the distribution of the world's major ocean currents and those controlling the distribution of marine life in the benthic, pelagic, and estuarine environments are explored. The influence of tides on coastal ecosystems, the shipping industry, and tides as a source of energy, are examined. The environmental consequences of over-fishing, pollution, global warming, and El Nino, among others, are discussed. Principles of scientific inquiry are integrated throughout the course.
3 Credits

GEOL1130 - Landforms Of The World
Spring 2015

This course reviews the processes affecting the shape of the Earth's crust and the distribution of the world's major landforms. The course examines the Earth's dynamic interior, the manifestation of this dynamism through agents such as plate tectonics, volcanism, thermal convection, and earth quakes, and the role these agents play in generating landforms. The type and character of the rocks associated with these dynamic processes are reviewed. The role of glaciers, wind, waves, weathering, mass wasting, and running water in altering the Earth's landforms is considered. The distribution of the world's major energy and mineral deposits, mountain ranges, volcanoes, fault zones, and ocean basins is reviewed. Environmental hazards associated with the world's major landform regions are reviewed. Principles of scientific inquiry are integrated throughout the course.
3 Credits

GEOL1210 - Intro Explor/Prodtn Petroleum
Spring 2015

This course will provide a comprehensive overview of the petroleum industry. Students will be introduced to the geological development and accumulation of petroleum fuels and techniques for the exploration of petroleum resources. A comprehensive overview of petroleum extraction and production techniques will be provided, focusing on types of drilling systems. Finally, methods of petroleum transportation will be discussed. A review of historical and contemporary methods and techniques will be provided throughout the course.
3 Credits

GEOL4000 - Hydrogeology
Spring 2015

This is an advanced course in geology and examines the terrestrial hydrosphere. Ground and surface waters' physical and chemical properties are examined. Techniques to quantify ground water and surface water flow rates and other dynamic properties are reviewed. The properties and characteristics of streams and aquifers are examined and classified. Porosity and permeability characteristics of groundwater mediums are reviewed. Ground and surface water as a resource and pollution within this resource and methods for its control are reviewed. Elements of limnology are examined. Course includes a laboratory/recitation period which includes hands-on demonstrations of topics reviewed in lecture and experimentation utilizing the analytical techniques and equipment reviewed in the course.
Prerequisite: GEOL1000 and COSK2220 or COSK2225
3 Credits

GEOL4022 - Conven Energy: Fossil Fuels
Spring 2015

This course is the review of the three major fossil fuels: coal, oil and natural gas. It has in-depth review of the geological processes responsible for the formation of conventional fuels, including national and international distribution of these fuels. The combustion process as related to fossil fuels is discussed as the techniques and technology utilized in exploration, use and environmental remediation of the fuels. The history of the industry devoted to exploration and use of these fuels is discussed. The effects of these fuels on climate change is also included in the course review. Non-conventional fossil fuels are also discussed including Marcellus Shale exploration.
Prerequisites: ENGR1022 or ENVS1022 and ENGR1023 or ENVS10233 Credits